Contract: Fixed-term contract, 2 years

Hours: Full-time

Location: Manama, Bahrain

The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) is an international research institute that provides objective information on military, geopolitical and geo-economic developments that could lead to conflict. It intends to appoint a Research Fellow focused on Middle East policy at the Middle East office in Manama, Bahrain.

The Research Fellow will be reporting to the Executive Director IISS – Middle East and the Senior Fellow for Middle East Policy.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct original, high-quality and independent research on at least one of the following themes: (1) energy policy and security, (2) the intersection of technology and geopolitics and (3) infrastructure and connectivity in the Middle East and its immediate neighbourhood.
• Contribute to IISS analysis across various platforms.
• Support IISS fundraising activities, advisory services and events.
• Collaborate closely with IISS colleagues, including mentoring and supervising junior researchers.

Requirements:

The successful candidate must:

• Be an analyst of high calibre, with experience in academia, government, journalism or industry.
• Possess knowledge of Middle Eastern political and security dynamics.
• Have a proven publishing record.
• Have a postgraduate degree relating to Middle East studies, or an equivalent professional background in related fields.
• Have demonstrable experience working in a relevant field.
• Be able to write and communicate well in English and conduct research in one Middle Eastern language.
• Experience living and conducting research in the Middle East will be highly valued.

Remuneration:

We offer a competitive salary based on skills and experience and a full benefits package.

Application:

Candidates should submit the following two documents by pressing the blue ‘apply now’ button on the left-hand side of this screen:

• CV, attached with a list of publications and two relevant writing samples.
• Cover letter.

The deadline for receipt of applications is 6 November 2025. Due to the volume of expected applications, only those selected for interview will be contacted.

Location of role is IISS – Middle East, Manama, Bahrain. Applications requesting another location will not be considered. The IISS will provide visa sponsorship for this position, if required.

The IISS is an equal opportunities employer.